We all think of clementines as “baby oranges” or “Christmas oranges”
as some call them, but there are many benefits of clementines that make
them quite a unique fruit from an orange. Oranges are wonderful for you,
but clementines deserve their own spotlight too. Clementines are
actually the cross between a Chinese mandarin and an orange. They’re
slightly sweeter than oranges, but lower in sugar. They’re fun for kids
and adults to eat, and make the perfect portable snack. Check out these
benefits of clementines that make them worth a try if you haven’t had
them yet. They’re not just cute little oranges, but also nutritional
powerhouses!
1. Low Sugar
One of the biggest benefits of clementines is they are a low carbohydrate fruit, meaning they won’t spike your glycemic index. They have roughly 2 grams of fiber and only 8 total carbs per fruit. This makes them excellent to eat as a low glycemic snack, or you can even add them to your breakfast as a healthy low sugar fruit. They’re also delicious in a smoothie or with yogurt!
2. High in Potassium
Like most fruit, clementines are high in potassium. They contain roughly
130 miligrams of potassium per serving. Potassium is essential for
healthy blood pressure, healthy joints, for your arteries, and it helps
battle bloating. It’s also wonderful for preventing headaches, aiding
digestion, and for alleviating inflammation. Potassium and sodium are
crucial to your body to help balance body fluids and prevent muscle
cramps. Being sure you get enough of both from healthy sources will help
keep your body in tip top shape!
3. Low Calorie
Per fruit, clementines are only 35 calories, which is incredible for a source of concentrated sugar like fruit. They’re fat free like almost all fruits, and they’re rich in antioxidants. Even if you don’t eat a low calorie diet, it’s important to include low calorie fruits and vegetables into your day for vitamin, antioxidant, and mineral content.
4. Calcium
Though clementines aren’t a top source of calcium, they do contain 22
milligrams. Calcium is another essential mineral to help lower your
blood pressure and calm your nerves. It also helps build healthy bones
as most of you know, and it can even help quell chronic anxiety when
eaten regularly. Try to get your calcium from plant-based foods when
possible, such as clementines. Other sources include almonds, chia
seeds, and leafy greens.
5. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is found in rich amounts throughout all the citrus fruits, and clementines are a great source. Per fruit, clementines have 36 milligrams. Vitamin C is essential to your skin, hair, and weight, along with your immune system. It’s also one of the best vitamins you can consume for your digestive tract, which many people don’t know. Vitamin C can help regulate your bowels, along with enhance nutrient absorption from other foods. Be sure to get your Vitamin C through foods, and not tablets, which are made of chemical versions of Vitamin C and can prevent nutrient absorption from other foods. Berries, cherries, pineapple, all citrus fruits, strawberries, and leafy greens are your best plant-based sources.
6. Beta-carotene
Clementines also contain beta-carotene, as all orange colored pieces of
produce do. Beta-carotene is a form of Vitamin A that is wonderful for
your eyes, skin, and heart. It’s one of the most beneficial antioxidants
you can consume, and rich in most all plant-based foods, but more so in
orange and yellow hued produce. My favorite sources outside of
clementines include papaya, winter squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, and
oranges. Having a clementine or orange per day can help you reach your
daily Vitamin A in a delicious healthy way.
7. Versatile
One benefit of clementines is they’re incredibly versatile in the
kitchen. You can add one chopped to hot oatmeal or cold overnight oats
with a few nuts or flaxseeds. Another great option is to have one with
with some yogurt and nuts or seeds, or slice one up with some apple
slices for a fun, light snack. For a fun meal option, you could even
serve them over brown rice or quinoa at dinner for a Chinese style meal.
Other ways to include using them into your day include smoothies or
shakes, juicing with them, or having them over a salad with fish,
chicken, or turkey. They’re a very versatile fruit that’s delicious to
enjoy throughout winter. Sadly, they are only available in winter, so
enjoy them while you can!
Fruits and vegetables are such an important part of a healthy diet.
Be sure to enjoy them as much as you can! Do you like to eat
clementines, or have you ever had one?
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